Starting and finishing at Etihad Campus, the home of Manchester City FC, the 13, 26 and 52-mile circuits offer riders the opportunity to pedal through the closed roads of Manchester city centre and take in the sights from a whole new perspective. The route includes landmarks such as Old Trafford, plus a stretch of the iconic Mancunian Way – a section of motorway normally off-limits to cyclists.

Former Hollyoaks star Gemma Atkinson will be riding the 52 mile course for Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity, along with Emmerdale stars Nicola Wheeler and Rik Makarem who are cycling for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research. Dean Andrews (Ashes to Ashes, Life on Mars, Last Tango in Halifax) will also be cycling the 52 mile course, with Emmerdale’s Tony Audenshaw taking on 26 miles – both supporting Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research.

With an event village hosting cycle industry exhibitors, charity partners, entertainment and food concessions, the Great Manchester Cycle is set to be a great day out in one of the UK’s most passionate sporting cities.

Entry costs £21 for 16+ years across the 13, 26 and 52-mile distances (16 & 17 year- olds must have permission by parent or guardian). Children aged 3 -7 can take part in the 13-mile event only on a tag-a-long bike or children's bike trailer/seat. Children aged 8-15 can enter the 13-mile free of charge (on their own bike) but must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Entries close Tuesday 24 June, 12 noon.

www.greatcycle.org